Gib'sea 43 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Gib'Sea 43 falls within a pivotal period for Gibert Marine, which was acquired by Dufour Yachts in 1996. Emerging from 2000 to 2004, the Gib'Sea 43 represented a fresh design approach under the new ownership, aiming to meet the evolving requirements of boat buyers and users. The design of the Gib'Sea 43 is attributed to J&J Design, a group that contributed to the recognizable French cruising aesthetic of later Gib'Sea models, often characterized by a "dolphin nose" bow. The builder's ethos during this era, post-acquisition by Dufour, continued the Gib'Sea tradition of prioritizing comfort, spaciousness, and practicality, while integrating contemporary elements to enhance liveability and sailing performance, 11].

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 969 square feet and a displacement of 22,763 pounds, the Gib'Sea 43 boasts a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.34. This ratio suggests a yacht capable of good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. However, with a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.27, the Gib'Sea 43 leans towards being a more comfortable cruiser rather than an exceptionally stiff performer in heavy winds, prioritizing a gentler motion over aggressive upwind capabilities. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 222.3 places it in the moderately heavy cruiser category, indicating a solid, substantial vessel that offers a comfortable ride rather than a light, nimble one.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Gib'Sea 43 as a yacht with excellent sailing characteristics and easy handling. It is often noted for being pleasant to maneuver and easy to recognize at sea, with its stable hull and efficient sail plan contributing to a cheerful navigating experience. The double helm station provides ample space in the cockpit and facilitates access to the aft skirt, which is ideal for swimming. Features such as a roller furling mainsail and genoa simplify sail handling, making the boat manageable for various crew compositions.

Accommodations and Layout

The Gib'Sea 43 is renowned for its very spacious and luxurious interior, offering an intelligent and flexible layout that caters well to cruising comfort. The boat features good headroom throughout, reaching up to 6.42 feet, which, combined with ample space and luminosity, creates a sense of well-being below deck. Typical layouts include four cabins and two heads, providing comfortable accommodation for up to 10 crew members, a feature that contributed to it being awarded "Boat of the Year" in 2001.

The interior often showcases beautiful finishes, with a blend of space and light that is particularly appealing. The design thoughtfully addresses the needs of cruisers, offering sufficient storage and functional living areas. The emphasis on liveability is a hallmark of the Gib'Sea brand, ensuring that time spent aboard is comfortable whether at anchor or underway.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Gib'Sea 43 consistently praise its solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and practical design. Many highlight its suitability for long-distance sailing, with some boats having successfully crossed oceans. The generous interior space and flexible accommodations are frequently cited as significant strengths, making it a favorite for families and charter operations.

While generally well-regarded for its comfort and practicality, some owners note that the build quality, though acceptable, is not always exceptional, suggesting that it reflects a good value for the price. The sailing characteristics are well-received, with the boat being described as fast and enjoyable to sail, particularly on a beam reach in moderate winds. Common maintenance or upgrade points, as with many boats of its age, might include updating older systems or re-bedding original deck fittings, though these are not highlighted as systemic issues. Overall, the collective owner sentiment underscores the Gib'Sea 43 as a robust, comfortable, and capable cruising yacht that continues to offer excellent value in the used boat market.